UNICEF urges parties to ensure the safety of children in Syria

Geneva, Jul 8 : United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) Executive Director Henrietta Fore while condemning the recent airstrike in which seven children were killed, urged the parties to the conflict and those who have influence over them 'to ensure that children in the northwest and across Syria are protected from the ongoing violence.'

At least seven children were killed in an airstrike against displaced civilians on Saturday on the village of Mhambel, in the outskirts of Idlib, in northwest Syria. News reports state that over 20 civilians were killed in this attack led by Government forces using missiles and barrel bombs.

"The obvious disregard for the safety and well-being of children evident in these attacks is appalling,” stated Ms. Fore who added: ”My heart breaks for the young lives lost and for all the children in the area who remain in harm’s way." UNICEF chief added.At least 140 children have been killed in northwest Syria since the start of this year.(UNI)